noun / verb

hoop

HOOP/huːp/

A rigid circular band enclosing an open center.

A plain wooden hoop stands upright with its open center visible.

A single plain wooden hoop standing upright, its continuous circular band and empty center clearly visible.

Etymology

The earliest recorded meaning was already “circular band” or “flattened ring.” That circular shape also underlies later uses for a child's rolling toy and a frame that holds a skirt out.

In context

Vivid Audio Library65:21

displayed a small gold hoop on the palm of a green glove. "A wedding ring!" exclaimed Mrs. Doria

The Ordeal of Richard Feverel by George Meredith (Part 2) | Full Classic Victorian Novel Audiobook

More examples

The barrel maker hoops each barrel with strong steel bands.
She tosses the basketball through the hoop.
We play hoops at the park after school.

Forms

hoop · hoops · hooped · hooping

Similar words

ring: More general; often describes smaller circular bands, including jewelry.
band: Need not be circular or enclose an open center.